Tips to keep your accommodation as safe as possible

Whether you live in Halls or in a privately rented property, there are always steps you can take to keep your accommodation as safe as possible.

What is tailgating? This is when a non-resident manages to enter a building by following someone else e.g. you're heading home and you swipe your key card to enter the block. If the person behind you follows you in and isn't a resident, this would be tailgating. 

Everyone in Halls has a role in keeping each other safe and there are simple steps you can take to make sure of this. Here’s 3 things you can do to prevent tailgating.

1. Don’t hold the door open for other people

Although it seems polite and like a nice thing to do, not holding the door open is a good way to make sure that only people who should have access to the building actually get in! Unless it’s a friend, flatmate or a neighbour you recognise, let the person behind you swipe for access themselves.

2. Don’t doubt your own gut instincts

If you notice someone enter the building and something feels suspicious or unusual then don’t just assume that they are a friend of someone’s, a delivery driver or maintenance person.

Of course, it’s not going to be possible to recognise everyone who lives in your building but staying vigilant of anything unusual or that might seem out of place will make a difference.

3. Report anything unusual 

If something feels unusual or suspicious, or if you’re ever unsure, please speak to a member of reception who are on hand to help 24/7 or contact Campus Support! (Emergency line: 0151 794 2222 and non emergency line: 0151 792 3252).

It's better to let a member of staff know than to hope for the best. Being vigilant is part of everyone's role to keep Halls a safe place.

4. Spotted a door fault that needs fixing? 

Report as soon as you can! If, for example, your key card reader breaks or if you notice as issue with a door or gate – let your Hall reception team know as soon as possible. The sooner that it is reported, the sooner it will be fixed.

These habits are super handy to have not just when you're living in halls but living in any type of accommodation. Along with this, getting into the habit of keeping valuables out of sight, making sure windows and doors are locked will make your time in student accommodation is as safe as possible.